Quincy’s Lori Bertram wins this year’s St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Award
By Andrew Hansen
EDITOR

After school Mass on Wednesday, May 13, about 400 students and dozens of staff at St. Peter Catholic School in Quincy went directly to the gym for a special assembly. The atmosphere was filled with the usual excitement and chatter because they were told a special guest was visiting. While that part was true, it wasn’t the actual reason for the assembly. At 10 a.m., Bishop Thomas John Paprocki, the special guest, entered the room, but people still wondered, “Why is he here?” Only a handful of people knew the real reason for the assembly — to honor first grade teacher Lori Bertram as the recipient of this year’s St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Award.

When Bertram’s name was called, and she came forward, the gymnasium erupted into applause. Students, faculty, and staff rose to their feet in a standing ovation that lasted about two minutes. Hidden behind the stage drapery were members of her family and close friends, bringing an emotional reaction from Bertram as she put her hands to her face. Holding back tears, Bertram embraced loved ones and took in the scene of love as the school community celebrated her impact that has stretched far beyond the walls of her classroom.

“When I came in and saw Bishop Paprocki, I thought, ‘Maybe I am the winner,’” Bertram said. “I am surprised. I am honored. I just give God the glory. These students teach me. I thought it was going to be the other way around. Therefore, I keep my practice of prayer, faith, and going to Mass first in my life so I can bring it to my students, so they can feel the presence of God in our classroom.”

The St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Award recognizes one Catholic teacher who is making a big difference in the classroom, who authentically lives out what it means to be Catholic and instills the Catholic faith into her students, and who embodies St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, who founded Catholic schools in the United States. Organizers from the diocesan Office for Catholic Schools and Office for Communications received more than 125 nominations this year from principals, teachers, parents, alumni, and students throughout the diocese. After review, five finalists were selected before Bertram was ultimately named this year’s recipient.

“Lori Bertram has been the face of Jesus for me on many occasions,” said Maria Mast, an Academic Specialist at St. Peter School​. “When I have faced some of life’s scariest moments or when I’m having a bad day, she listens carefully and immediately begins to pray. And, if you haven’t prayed with Lori, you’re missing out. Her voice brings instant peace and calm; her tone is soothing, and you can feel His presence.”

“When we shared a concern with Mrs. Bertram about our son having a hard time sitting still, Mrs. Bertram responded with thoughtful ideas and care,” said Leah Ley, a school parent. “Mrs. Bertram intentionally found simple, meaningful ways to help him succeed, such as giving him small classroom tasks or being her helper. It was clear she saw him, understood him, and wanted him to thrive. Our son truly flourished in her classroom.”

Bertram has taught first grade at St. Peter since the 2011-2012 school year and currently teaches a class of 21 students. Before moving to Quincy, she taught for five years in Red Bud, Illinois. A parishioner of St. Peter Parish, she has become a familiar and beloved figure in both the school and parish community through her years of teaching and witness of faith.

“The love she has for the Lord and our faith lights up our school and community,” said Cheryl Sowell, Bertram’s partner teacher. “All of the little things like sharing daily reflections, leading Bible studies and morning prayer group, volunteering to lead faculty in prayer, and opening her door to anyone and everyone after school to share the day’s ups and downs, stirs a fire within all of us who are blest to know her. Throughout the years, she has evolved into much more than just a partner teacher.” 

Principal Cindy Venvertloh spoke during the celebration, as did pastor Msgr. Leo Enlow. Bishop Paprocki reflected on the life of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, the patroness of Catholic schools in the United States and considered the foundress of the parochial school system in the country.

“Mrs. Bertram is so deserving of this recognition,” said Venvertloh. “She is such an outstanding teacher and co-worker. I am so grateful for her. Many times I have gone to Lori and have asked her if she could either pray with me or for me when I have been in tough situations. She is always so supportive and so incredibly faithful. I often ask her to lead our faculty meetings with prayer as she has such a calming voice and touches on everything we need to hear to help us grow in our faith.”  

Bertram’s family has long been central to her life. She and her husband, Joe, are parents of four grown children. A special video montage featuring congratulatory messages from family members added another emotional moment to the morning celebration.

After the assembly concluded, Bertram’s first graders rushed toward her for hugs, surrounding their teacher with affection and excitement. It was a fitting scene for someone known not only for educating children, but for loving them deeply.

Following the celebration, Bertram was given the remainder of the day off to celebrate with her family — a well-deserved honor for a teacher whose influence has shaped countless young lives through faith, compassion, and Catholic education.

“I love praying with the students, teaching religion, and weaving our faith in lessons throughout the day,” Bertram said. “This school is so amazing to be part of. Everyone works so hard for that very same thing. We all work hard to weave our faith into lessons throughout the day.”